The shooting at popular gay club Pulse in the early hours of Sunday morning, which has so far claimed 50 lives, has prompted a massive outpouring of grief on a global scale, with many countries and organisations paying tribute to those affected.

Newcastle’s LGBT community has already rallied to organise a vigil at Times Square tomorrow evening. And a vigil has now been planned, which will take place at Newcastle Civic Centre at 6pm tonight.

On Facebook Coun Nick Forbes revealed that the rainbow flag was being flown at half mast at the Civic Centre and outlined plans for its towers to be lit up in the same colours.

He wrote: “The rainbow flag is flying at half mast at the Civic Centre today, and tonight the civic tower will be lit up in the rainbow colours as a demonstration of Newcastle’s solidarity and friendship with all those affected by this terrible tragedy.”

In a statement released by Newcastle City Council, Coun Forbes added: “There has been an outpouring of grief and anger across the city at this terrorist attack in Orlando.

“Our hearts go out to the victims, their friends and families at this incredibly difficult time. Sadly this shows how much further we still have to go in tackling homophobia, but the hate behind this attack will not weaken our values.

“In cities across the world people are coming together to remember those killed, and we stand shoulder to shoulder with Orlando and every LGBT community.

“Our united response shows that it is love for each other, not hatred, that defines us and I am proud to offer Newcastle’s support to our friends in Florida.”

Confirming plans for the Millennium Bridge tribute, a post on Gateshead Council’s Facebook read: “As a mark of our region’s love and solidarity with the victims and family of the Orlando nightclub massacre, the Gateshead Millennium Bridge will be illuminated in rainbow colours tonight.

“The bridge will be lit at around dusk tonight and will be illuminated until midnight.”

Northumberland County Council are also flying their flag at half past in tribute to those who tragically lost their lives.

The gunman responsible for the atrocities over in Orlando, 29-year-old Omar Mateen, was shot dead by armed officers around three hours after first opening fire in the club.